John Gabriel left us on September 9, 2026, in his hometown of Jacksonville, AR. He proudly served in the United States Air Force, where he made lifelong friends. After the military, he continued in the field of dentistry, teaching dental hygiene at UAMS in Little Rock and later running his own dental business in Charlotte, NC.

John was always there to help anyone in need. He strove to help people pursue greatness and was strong in his beliefs, making it clear where his principles stood. He did not know what it was to be still—always chasing a goal. He spent many years coaching youth baseball and softball. He also logged millions of miles on road trips, enjoyed relaxing getaways in the mountains, golfing, working on cars, attending concerts, and watching college football. He was a bold spirit and was loved by many.

John was a loving son, brother, friend, father, and grandfather. Gone from our sight but never from our hearts, he leaves behind his mother, Bonnie Gabriel of Jacksonville, AR; son Michael (Shauna) Gabriel of Hartford, WI; daughter Reese Gabriel of Greenville, SC; brothers Greg Gabriel of Benton, AR, and Bill Hobson of White Hall, AR; sister JoAnn Butler of McRae, AR; and many other family members and friends who miss and love him.

Preceding John in death are his father, Glenn Gabriel; brothers Ricky and Steve Gabriel; and sisters Angie and Sandy Gabriel.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 10:00am with the funeral service at 11:00am in the chapel at A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville. Burial to follow at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com